Hubs bring music to the ears of region’s budding performers

Leeds, North Yorkshire and Sheffield are among 122 local authorities in England and 15 across Yorkshire to gain Music Hub status following an announcement by the Arts Council of England.

Other areas to benefit include Bradford, Barnsley, Calderdale, Doncaster, East Riding of Yorkshire, Hull, Kirklees, Rotherham, Wakefield and York.

In Bradford, it is hoped the hub will improve access to instruments for young people and support progression through an interactive website.

Councillor Ralph Berry, Bradford Council’s executive member for children and young people’s services, said: “This is great news for Bradford and will provide children and young people with new opportunities to improve their music and performance skills.

“The Music Hub will bring partners together to provide a high quality music and arts service for children and young people across the district.”

Music Hubs have been set up to ensure that every child aged from five to 18 has the opportunity to sing and learn a musical instrument, develop their interest and also play with other children as part of an ensemble or choir.

The organisers say the hubs will see a significant shift in the way music education has been delivered to date both in and out of school.

Organisations, including schools, professional music organisations, higher and further education institutions and Arts Council funded organisations will join together to create music education provision for children and young people, under the scheme.

The hubs should be in place in August.